Netanyahu Warns of 'Turning Guns' Ahead of Elections
Translated & summarized from Ynet by baba
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned of a "turning of guns" scenario during a visit to the seam line in Samaria, two weeks before elections. He stated that enemies might test Israel and assured preparedness for any eventuality. The IDF confirmed it is practicing for this scenario, though no specific intelligence indicates the Palestinian Authority plans such a move. Netanyahu emphasized Israel's strong response capabilities and commitment to security.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned of a "turning of guns" scenario two weeks before elections.
- Netanyahu stated that "enemies are thinking of testing us" and assured Israel's preparedness.
- The IDF is practicing for the "turning of guns" scenario, where Palestinian security weapons could be used against Israelis.
- No current intelligence indicates the Palestinian Authority plans such a dramatic move, according to the IDF.
- Netanyahu visited the seam line with Defense Minister Israel Katz and received security briefings.
- The Prime Minister asserted that Israel is establishing settlements and protecting security in the region.
With two weeks remaining until the elections, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the seam line in Samaria on Tuesday, reiterating his warning about the "turning of guns" scenario. He stated that there are intelligence warnings in the area, asserting, "Our enemies are thinking of testing us in these days leading up to the elections." Netanyahu added, "I warn them that we are prepared for any scenario, including what is called the turning of guns."
The concept of "turning of guns," where Palestinian security forces' weapons are aimed at Israeli settlements or soldiers, has been discussed in Israel for about a month and a half. This began with a discussion in Central Command where Netanyahu questioned the Chief of Staff about such a situation, while command personnel presented the reality of extreme settler riots and their consequences, alongside the need to divert forces. The issue continued with Netanyahu's remarks in an interview and aligns with past statements from him and his ministers.
The IDF has clarified that this scenario is known and has been practiced, and there is currently no intelligence indicating such a plan. However, senior officers explained that the Judea and Samaria region is "getting out of control," and security officials have warned the political echelon that it is "on the verge of explosion" due to numerous incidents of extreme nationalist vigilantism.
During his visit, accompanied by Defense Minister Israel Katz, the National Security Advisor, and the Commander of Central Command, Netanyahu was briefed by IDF, Shin Bet, and Border Police commanders on defense efforts for the seam line communities and significant counter-terrorism operations. Near Tulkarm, Netanyahu stated, "The IDF presented to me and the Defense Minister a strong and comprehensive plan. In such a case (of turning guns), I do not suggest our enemies test us. You will encounter a power you have not dreamed of. We will continue to protect Israel's security here, on the seam line, everywhere. We are establishing settlements here, over 104, and many farms. We are protecting the security of the State of Israel."
While the IDF has no intelligence suggesting the Palestinian Authority is on the verge of a "turning of guns" move, the army is preparing for the extreme scenario, as Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir noted in a discussion responding to Netanyahu.
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